There will be no Asian Open championship in 2026.

KUCHING, 19 Sept: Tyng Dance Academy (TDA) was crowned the Best School at the 2026 Asian Open Dance Championships after 22 dancers from Sarawak brought home 30 awards, including three Diamonds, five Golds, 16 Silvers and six Bronzes.

Founder and Chairman of TDA, Chan Tyng Tyng said the achievement reflects the strength of Sarawak dancers in various categories and performance formats throughout the tournament which took place at Petaling Jaya Performing Arts Centre (PJPAC), Selangor, from September 11 to 16.

"We are proud of the 30 awards of the competition, but what is more meaningful is to see Son Sarawak recognized in various fields, as individuals, couples, groups, through scholarships and overall Best School Awards", he said in a statement today.

Among TDA's major achievements was winning the Best Group Award in the Adult Classical Category with the participation of 11 dancers, with each group member also receiving a Diamond Medal for their performance.

In the Junior Fashion Category, nine-year-old dancers Ariella Tang Chen Xin and Jovanna Goh Yi Xian won Best Duo & Trio Award as well as a Diamond Award for their performance of Modern Jazz Junior Duo.

Both also received 100 percent scholarships to the 2027 Taiwan Open Dance Championships.

Meanwhile, Calla Roa Tayan Salang was crowned the highest scorer for the Senior New Ballet Creation category 13 Years and received a 50 per cent scholarship to the Malaysian Grand Prix, in addition to being part of the group that won the Best Group Award.

Another 50 percent scholarship to the Malaysian Grand Prix was awarded to Demi Character Junior Ensemble featuring Ariella, Anya Valerie Inja Baring, Jessie Chee Yi Wen, Jovanna, Ng Sze Yun and Olivia Lee En-Xi.

Chan said the success was not just a competitive achievement, but rather a pathway for dancers to gain exposure, training and new opportunities at higher levels.

"When our dancers are recognized, Sarawak is also recognized with them. Wherever they perform, they bring the place of origin, community support and values that shape them", he said.

Among the recipients of recognition are TDA faculty members Chai Sin Yee and Winnie Chong Yee Tze who each received the Distinguished Choreographer Award for Classical and Modern Jazz Divisions.

The recognition completes the achievements of 22 Sarawak dancers in the competition.

- The TVs.